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Our History
The history of Great Bridge Presbyterian Church is a testament to decades of dedicated servants building a lasting community of faith and educating generations of children and adults in God’s word.
It is a history of developing lay leadership to serve as deacons caring for the needs of others, elders governing and leading, Christian Educators both in staff and volunteer roles helping to develop a solid foundation of faith in every ministry. By creating this strong foundation, the church has become a vibrant congregation constantly seeking to look beyond its doors to serve the needs of others in our community and around the world.
A Vision Takes Root in Great Bridge
In 1960, the Norfolk Presbytery recognized the need for a Presbyterian church in the growing Great Bridge area and purchased six and a half acres at the corner of Cedar Road and Briarfield Drive—across from what is now Chesapeake City Hall.
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Rev. Ira B. Watson, Jr. began his ministry in 1962. Within two months, the congregation had grown to 35 in Sunday School and 48 in worship. For two years, the faithful met in what was Great Bridge Elementary School, and on February 23, 1964, Great Bridge Presbyterian church was officially chartered. Its first sanctuary was built in 1967, then the preschool wing in the ‘80s, and a new sanctuary in 1999.
Faithful Through the Years: A Legacy of Growth and Grace
The Rev. Ira B. Watson, Jr. was the first pastor of the church and was succeeded by the Rev. Dr. Conrad Crow (1982-1996). Upon his retirement, the church’s history was further shaped by Rev. Dr. Ralph Herbert (1996-2019), and later the Reverends Kelly and Mike Nieto (2019-2021).
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Throughout the Covid pandemic, the church remained steadfast in worship and service. A significant investment in livestreaming allowed GBPC to expand its digital presence, reaching members and visitors not only locally but across the country and internationally. Rev. Dr. Lou Ventura served as transitional pastor from September 2022 to November 2024, followed by Rev. Dr. Donna DeSarro-Raynal, who began her transitional ministry in January 2025. During this season of change, the congregation has continued to grow, and new ministries have taken root. The Pastoral Nominating Committee was commissioned during worship on January 28, 2024, and continues its work prayerfully, seeking GBPC’s next called and installed pastor.
Where Faith Begins and Voices Rise
A vibrant and vital ministry of GBPC since 1972 has been its wonderful Preschool that serves families of the church and the community at large. It is a blessing to be part of educating and nurturing the faith of the youngest among us.
The church has nurtured children and youth through Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and retreats and activities that provide spiritual growth and fellowship, all led by dedicated staff and volunteers. Adults grow in faith through small groups, prayer gatherings, and Bible studies that foster connection and service.
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Music has long been central to the life of GBPC. The church offers a variety of choirs and ensembles for all ages, including the Chancel Choir, Senior Adult Choir, Contemporary Worship Team, Youth Worship Team, and KIDS SING as well as flute and handbell choirs, inviting all to use their gifts in worship.
Extending Christ’s Love Near and Far
Outreach ministries, serving both local and global needs have been part of the faith commitment of GBPC for decades. Our commitment to share Christ’s love has extended to Nicaragua with Vida Joven (Young Life), singing mission trips to share our faith internationally, and supporting ministries that house the homeless, visit the imprisoned, and care for the brokenhearted. We partner with Presbyterian Disaster Assistance to support rebuilding efforts when disasters occur. We support the Southeastern Virginia FoodBank serving those in need throughout the Tidewater area. We have donated over 60,000 lbs of food to feed the hungry in partnership with our volunteers who cultivate fresh vegetables in our “Giving Garden.”
From its earliest days to today
Great Bridge Presbyterian Church has been a place of deep faith, vibrant worship, and meaningful service—committed to welcoming all who seek to know and follow Christ.